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Saquon Barkley Vows To Stay With Eagles Despite Trade Rumors
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- Saquon Barkley Vows To Stay With Eagles Despite Trade Rumors
Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Rumors swirled that Saquon Barkley might leave Philadelphia, but the running back shut them down with a clear message. After a tough loss to Washington, he told reporters he wants to fix the team's problems, not run away from them. The Eagles lost their sixth straight game on Sunday night, falling 27-10 to the Commanders at Northwest Stadium.
Trade talk often follows a bad streak, yet Barkley made his stance known immediately. He knows the season is going poorly, but he refuses to jump ship when things get hard. This loyalty matters for a fanbase that has seen too much change in recent years.
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A Clear Message to the Locker Room
Barkley spoke plainly about his future after the game ended on Sunday night. According to the Associated Press, he told reporters, "I would love to be here." He added that he does not want to be the type of player who leaves when the season turns sour. The team needs players who stick around to help find a solution.
He is not the only one dealing with issues. Quarterback Jalen Hurts also faces injury concerns, and the roster is thin at several spots. Despite these hurdles, Barkley wants to be part of the answer. Heavy.com reported that he said, "I would love to be here. I plan on being here."
The Ravens acquired offensive lineman Cam Jurgens from General Manager Howie Roseman in exchange for draft picks. This move shows the front office is willing to make changes to improve the team's future. Yet, Barkley insists he will stay to help the current group get back on track.
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Playing Through the Pain
Barkley has not been at 100 percent for most of the season. He missed the first two days of practice this week due to a hamstring and back injury. NBC Sports Philadelphia noted that he returned on Friday to explain his mindset. He told the media, "One day, I'm not going to be playing football." He said he does not want to look back and wonder if he could have tried harder.
His stats show he is still effective when he is on the field. He recorded 14 touches, 54 yards, and a touchdown during the matchup with Washington. According to the Associated Press, his season totals include 274 rushing yards on 56 carries, which equals an average of 4.9 yards per carry. He also caught seven passes for 41 yards. These numbers prove he can still move the ball, even with limited snaps.
The Eagles are not using him as a full-time workhorse right now. NFL insider Jay Glazer reported that the team planned to keep him on a snap count against Washington. This helps him stay healthy while still contributing. The team hopes he can last through the rest of the season without worsening his injuries.
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The trade deadline is coming up on November 10. That is just one game away after the Giants visit next Sunday. Heavy.com reported that ESPN's Mike Garafolo and Ian Rapoport said Barkley will not be traded before the deadline. This news ends the speculation about him leaving town.
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Eagles record: 2-6
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Barkley rushing yards: 274
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Contract remaining: Two years, over $35 million
The team sits in last place in the NFC East. The Giants lead the division and come to Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday, November 8. Barkley has committed to stay with the team.
He has two years left on his deal worth more than $35 million.
